Talk to your heart about the Newton, CT tragedy

“Every day, think as you wake up, today I am fortunate to be alive, I have a precious human life, I am not going to waste it.”

– Dalai Lama

As we start another day after a tragedy, I’m encouraging myself and others to step back for a minute and breathe. Yes, take a smooth, deep breath and place your hand over your heart. Hold it for a moment, and slowly release. If you feel big pangs of pain, or contentment and peace, your heart holds unlimited purpose. And whatever you feel is OK.

The Newton, Connecticut elementary school shooting no doubt affects us all…in different ways. We could classify the aftershocks of what we’re feeling as grief, and as we know, everyone does grief differently. Processing such an intense tragedy takes time. As someone who loves social media, I have been noticing a lot of anger…one process as we move through stages of grief. I feel it is important to share a message I have been receiving from somewhere in my heart…

As hurt, angry and frustrated we may be feeling right now, pointing fingers isn’t going to help the families get their children back or protect our children (and future generations) from harm. The good we all seek starts very small, in our hearts, it is a thought and part of our purpose to create a greater good. We must practice acceptance, love, understanding, openness in ourselves and in our homes. Be what you want to see in this world. Let’s come together to find a solution. And even before we do that, we must respect each other.

So…what does your heart say? What does it want? Maybe you have to go deep to find that it wants peace. But, it is there, right? We are all connected in this world. One open heart can open another. Can you see the benefit of wanting good for all? We all hold such a magnificent gift that can change the world. Don’t believe me? Try not to smile when someone looks you in the eyes and smiles…it’s contagious!

Once you find yourself open, don’t be afraid to light the fire in your heart and make a difference. We know what’s right. Start with yourself. You are precious and alive and have the ability of free will. What do you choose?

I send blessings to the victims and their families today, but also to everyone feeling affected, as I know we all hold a part of this in our hearts.

I haven’t read or watched anything about the tragedy just the bit that my husband told me about it having happened. Instead I have chosen to remain silent within my heart and hold a sacred space for those families for their tragic loss. Your words beautifully resonated with me. Thank you.